One of the best ways to stay in shape is to go for regular runs, but the smarter way to do that is with the aid of a little bit of technology. There’s a good chance that you bring your iPhone along with you when you go for your running sessions anyway, so why not take advantage of one of the best iPhone running apps while you’re at it?

These serve several purposes. For starters, they can help to keep track of your progress and your routes. This way, you can know if you’re getting in better shape based on your improved times. Second, because of this kind of tracking, these apps can also serve as indispensible motivators, constantly pushing you to beat your personal bests. Whether it’s sunny or raining, you’ve got to keep going. Let’s pound the pavement.

RunKeeper

RunKeeper for iPhone

This is easily one of the most popular iPhone running apps out there. Developed by FitnessKeeper, RunKeeper allows you to track your runs, walks, bike rides, hikes, and more using the GPS on your iPhone. You get detailed stats about your pace, distance, and progress, measuring your performance over time. Your activities and achievements can be easily shared with your friends and you can measure your heart rate at the same time.

Endomondo Sports Tracker

Endomondo Fitness App

I mentioned Endomondo as part of my list of the best fitness apps for the iPhone, but it’s certainly worth mentioning again. Like RunKeeper, Edomondo uses the GPS on your phone to track your fitness activities, working as a “free personal trainer and fitness partner.” In fact, it even provides you with audio feedback on your performance as you go. Set goals, study nearby routes, and customize your homescreen too.

MapMyRUN GPS Running

MapMyRUN iPhone Running App

They say that keeping up with your exercise routine is easier when you do it with someone. In a sense, you can do some of that with MapMyRUN, since it lets you see a live map and activity feed of your friends. This way, even if you’re not running together, you kind of are running together anyway. As expected, this is another GPS-enabled app to track your pace, calories, elevation, distance and more, as well as provide you with a live route map.

Nike+ Running

Nike+ Running App for iOS

I remember when the whole Nike+ phenomenon first hit the market with the iPod integration and the little dongle for your Nike running shoes. These days, though, you can accomplish all of them with one seamless experience on your iPhone. The Nike+ Running app lets you map your runs, track your progress, and get the motivation you need to reach your goals. This is true for running on the road or on a trail, just as much as it’s true for running on a treadmill. Combine this with your favorite iPhone music app and you’re well on your way to a healthier you.

Barefoot Running Coach

Barefoot Running Coach

Not all iPhone running apps are able tracking your route using the GPS and showing your progress on a live map. That’s certainly helpful, but you also want to keep a keen eye on your running technique. That’s where Barefoot Running Coach comes into the picture. This app works to improve your running form, not only to improve your performance, but also to reduce your chance for injury. As expected, this app is catered toward people who want to give barefoot running a try.

Runmeter GPS Running Stopwatch

Runmeter GPS iPhone Running App

Yes, the focus here has been on iPhone running apps, but even though this particular app is called Runmeter, it actually works with a variety of fitness activities too. You can use it to track your cycling and walking too, for instance. This app continually records your itme, location, elevation, distance and speed, providing you with that much needed motivation. This is great for marathon training, complete with pre-installed training plans for 5K, 10K, half and full marathons. The audible announcements are great motivators too.

A freelance writer and professional blogger based out of Vancouver, Canada, Michael Kwan focuses primarily in the areas of consumer electronics, entrepreneurship, and personal development. He blogs six times a week at Beyond the Rhetoric. Follow him on Twitter: @michaelkwan